DOH reiterates reminder on banning parties amid pandemic
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health on Monday reiterated its reminder to local government units and the public that the holding of parties is prohibited in this time of public health emergency due to COVID-19 pandemic.
In Monday’s virtual briefing, Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said in Filipino: “We are requesting our local government units and our public that gatherings like parties that can be super spreader events are prohibited.”
Vergiere’s reminder came as the local government officials issued a show cause order against a bar in Cebu City after videos of customers failing to observe physical distancing—with some not wearing masks—surfaced last weekend.
FROM THE FREEMAN: Bar in hot water for violating health protocols
In late May, Quezon City officials warned residents organizing social gatherings that they will face complaints under local ordinances. This was after an improvised pool party and drinking session at Brgy. Nagkaisang Nayon became a superspreader event where the coronavirus was transmitted to 51 residents.
Vergeire cited the joint memorandum circular signed by the Departments of the Interior and Local Government and of Justice and the Philippine National Police which laid down guidelines governing health and safety ordinances violations and quarantine-related violations.
The DOH official said the circular contained a call for local government officials to intensify the implementation of public health standards in their jurisdiction, from banning big gatherings to wearing of face masks and face shields and enforcing curfews.
The circular also discusses the local government units’ responsibility in enforcing health protocols and sanctions if officials fail to implement them.
“We are urging the public to stay at home and go out only when needed to prevent the transmission of COVID-19 for our safety. Our strict following to minimum public health standards is needed for us to stop another surge [in infections] from happening,” Vergeire also said.
Since late May, health authorities have been logging more than 5,000 new infections daily. On June 6, DOH reported 7,372 new cases, pushing national viral caseload to 1,188,243. — Kristine Joy Patag
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